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Kindle 2: Amazon’s New Wireless Reading Device (Latest Generation)

Amazon Kindle is a software and hardware platform for reading electronic books (e-books), developed by Amazon.com subsidiary Lab126, first launched in the United States November 19, 2007.  Two hardware devices, known as "Kindle" and "Kindle 2," support this platform, as does an iPhone application called "Kindle for iPhone."

The Kindle hardware devices use an electronic paper display and download content over Amazon Whispernet using the Sprint EVDO network. Kindle hardware devices can be used without a computer, and Whispernet is accessible without any fee.   These devices also provide free internet access to Wikipedia.

CNET Kindle 2 Review

The good: Excellent high-contrast screen does a great job of simulating a printed page; large library of tens of thousands of e-books, newspapers, magazines, and blogs via Amazon’s familiar online store; built-in free wireless "Whispernet" data network–no PC needed; built-in keyboard for notes; SD card expansion slot; compatible with Windows and Mac machines.

The bad: Design is ergonomic, but not very elegant; pricing for nearly all the content seems too high, especially considering the periodicals and blogs are available for free online; black-and-white screen is fine for books, but less impressive for periodicals and Web content; lacks a true Web browser; included cover is clumsy and poorly designed; additional file formats need to be e-mailed to Amazon for conversion; yet another dedicated device you’ll need to lug around with you.

The bottom line: With its free built-in wireless capabilities and PC-free operation, Amazon’s Kindle holds a distinct advantage over Sony’s Reader and is a promising evolution of the electronic book–but Amazon needs to bring down the pricing for both the device and the content to attract a wider audience.

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